Hashim Amla pleased with South Africa's resolve on opening day at Centurion

Hashim Amla was delighted with South Africa's efforts as they recovered to a respectable total against Pakistan

Last Updated: 22/02/13 6:09pm

Hashim Amla: Hit an impressive 92

Amla, along with AB de Villiers, helped South Africa to 334-6 having been struggling at 196-5 at the SuperSport Park.

Amla struck an impressive 92 while De Villiers hit an unbeaten 98 after Pakistan's inexperienced attack had frustrated the South African top order.

And for Amla, who hit 13 fours in a 128-ball innings, their recovery was even more satisfying given they had already wrapped up the series victory.

"Although the pressure of having to win the series is off us, the way we played today in testing conditions was a testament to how much we want to win the game," said Amla. "We could easily have thrown in the towel."

Inexperienced

Pakistan's three-man pace bowling attack had just two Test caps between them before the Test. Rahat Ali and Ehsan Adil, neither of whom had taken a wicket in Test cricket before, were responsible for the first five dismissals.

Pakistan finished the day a bowler short after Adil limped off with what appeared to be a hamstring strain after sending down just one delivery with the second new ball.

Bowling coach Mohammad Akram said it was not certain whether he would be fit to bowl on Saturday. Akram added that the fielding of such an inexperienced pace attack was forced on Pakistan.

"We had no choice. We have had a lot of injuries. Junaid (Khan) and Umar Gul would have been our first choices but they are injured," he said. "Overall the bowling was okay against the number one side."